Italian Day on the Drive 2024

Italian Day on the Drive 2024: Celebrating "STORIA" in Vancouver

Event Date and Time:

Sunday, June 9, 2024

Location:

Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC
Stretching across 14 vibrant blocks of Vancouver’s historic Little Italy.

Overview:

Mark your calendars for Sunday, June 9th, 2024, and get ready to experience one of Vancouver’s largest and most beloved cultural street festivals—Italian Day on the Drive. This year, we celebrate the theme "STORIA," which means History or Story in Italian, reflecting on the rich heritage, culture, and community of Italo-Canadians. Since its revival in 2010, Italian Day has become a cornerstone event, drawing hundreds of thousands of attendees of all ages and cultures to the heart of Vancouver's Little Italy.

Theme: STORIA

The 2024 theme, "STORIA," emphasizes the importance of history in shaping our memories and emotional connections. It highlights the power of storytelling in preserving traditions and values, bridging the past with the present to inspire a better future. As we celebrate "STORIA," we honor the shared stories that connect us all and the lessons we learn from history to create lasting legacies.

Event Highlights:

• Cultural Performances: Enjoy a variety of performances showcasing traditional Italian music, dance, and theatre. From lively folk dances to contemporary acts, there's something to captivate everyone.
• Delicious Italian Cuisine: Savor the flavors of Italy with an array of food stalls and vendors offering authentic Italian dishes. Indulge in pasta, pizza, gelato, and other Italian delicacies prepared by local chefs.
• Art and Craft Exhibits: Explore exhibits featuring Italian art, crafts, and historical artifacts. Discover the talents of local Italian artisans and purchase unique handmade items.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Bring the whole family to enjoy interactive activities and games. There will be face painting, puppet shows, and more to keep the little ones entertained.
• Parades and Processions: Witness colorful parades and processions celebrating Italian heritage, complete with traditional costumes and lively music.
• Market Stalls: Browse through a variety of market stalls selling Italian products, from fashion and accessories to gourmet foods and wines.

Why Attend:

• Community Celebration: Italian Day on the Drive is a unique opportunity to celebrate and experience Italian culture and heritage in a festive community setting.
• Cultural Exchange: Engage with diverse cultures and learn about the rich history and contributions of the Italo-Canadian community.
• Free Admission: The event is free and open to the public, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy.

Getting There:

Commercial Drive is easily accessible by public transit, bike, or foot. Limited street parking is available, so attendees are encouraged to use alternative transportation methods.

Visitor Information:

• Date and Time: Sunday, June 9, 2024, from morning until late evening.
• Admission: Free
• Location: Commercial Drive, spanning 14 blocks of Vancouver’s historic Little Italy.

Join the Celebration:

Whether you have Italian roots or simply appreciate the vibrant culture, Italian Day on the Drive is a festival that promises fun, food, and festivities for everyone. Come join us in making history together and celebrate "STORIA" with the Vancouver community.

For more information and updates, visit the official Italian Day on the Drive website or follow us on social media.